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Welcome
We're glad you're here!
Generation S is an informal, interactive, information zone where we invite you to look around, drop us a line and share your stories. Stop back often ... because we're a work in progress. Young stroke survivors, caregivers, medical personnel ... you're all welcome here!
Q: Want heart-friendly recipes?
A: Check out our CAREGIVER'S CORNER.
Q:Want to see which hopitals were ranked in the top 25 when it comes to stroke care?
A:See our HOT TOPICS!
Q:Wondering where to meet other young stroke survivors?
A:Introduce yourself on our MESSAGE BOARD or sign up for an E-buddy!
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Sites to buzz by:
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I'm A New Survivor
We realize how difficult and overwhelming this time can be. We've been there. We hope to offer you some resources that will help you along this journey.
If we could pass on a few words of advice it would be
BE PATIENT WITH YOURSELF...
Everybody is different and Every Body is different.
What Part Of My Brain Was Struck By the Stroke?
Where Do I Start?
Understand that having a stroke has changed you: It is normal to go through a period of grieving for the old life and the way you were before the stroke. Both you and your family will need to express sorrow, anger, fear and frustration over this loss. Bottling up these feelings will only make them grow.
Set sensible targets and goals: Work towards small but meaningful goals. This will relieve stress and can go a long way to raising your self-esteem and confidence. For example, someone with weakness on one side may have to learn new ways to get dressed. Focus on small improvements such as learning to do up buttons, put on earrings or tie shoe laces.
Don't compare yourself to others: What may seem like a small thing for one person may be a major accomplishment for another. Your health care team can help you set reasonable goals.
Keep a journal of improvements: This will help you keep track of where you were a week, month or even a year ago. It can also boost your confidence on days when you don’t feel you are getting anywhere. Ask your caregiver for assistance with this if you need help.
Keep up social contacts: Many survivors feel isolated and alone. Inviting friends and family to your home will create a positive, supportive living environment. It also makes it easier for you to interact with others, especially if you have difficulty getting around.
What Resources Are Available? 
Get your free subscription to Stroke Connection Magazine
Contact the American Stroke Association's Warmline (manned by stroke survivors)
@ 1-800-553-6321 to find local support groups, get free copies of booklets dealing with financial education and caregiving and don't forget to ask if there is a Peer Visitor Program in your area.
Check out the Generation S bookstore.Take a look at our GLOSSARY on common stroke terms.Sign up for a Generation S e-buddy! Just email us with a little about yourself!
If you smoke, try to stop. Check out this useful site. Quit Net
Are there any tips from other survivors?
Start a medical binder for copies of your medical history, articles you find online, etc.
Devote an address book to your important medical numbers, websites and email addresses so you'll always know where to find them.
Keep a clipboard around to jot down questions for your next doctor's visit.
Be proactive in your medical care. Don't be afraid to ask questions or for second (and third!) opinions!
Read this excellent article entitled "Will I Ever Be The Same?"
Answers to Other Questions You May Be Having
How was I diagnosed? What tests will I need?
What rehabilitation options are there?
What conditions could have caused my stroke? Are there support groups in my area?
Where else can I get information?
Other Things To Think About
Getting a personal medical information card.
Affordable from this company... only $8.00.
Think about getting a wallet sized card that holds six views of your CT or MRI scan on one side and critical information about your medical history on the reverse. Available from:
BelMed, Inc. for $25.00
6255 Barfield Road, #191
P.O. Box 888321
Atlanta, GA 30356-0321
Phone: (404) 851-1965
Fax: (404) 851-1800; or (800) 727-6137
Or a fashionable medical bracelet from Lauren's Hope!
They could speak for you when you can't.
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